Dan Carter has officially returned to New Zealand rugby.

Today the first five eighth joined the Crusaders and although he was not sighted on the training field, Carter was content to lean on the fence and chat to his team mates and coaches.

He hopes to make his first appearance for the Crusaders when they face the Cheetahs in their fifth round match on the 24th of this month.

Carter's return should also coincide with the opening of the new Christchurch Stadium after AMI Stadium suffered earthquake damage last year.

The Crusaders take on the Highlanders on Saturday at 6.35pm while tomorrow at 6.35 the Blues face the Chiefs.

Story by: Dreu Vukailagi